Film unit

ABSTRACT

A PHOTOGRAPHIC FILM UNIT OF THE SELF-PROCESSING TYPE, INCLUDING AN IMAGE-RECORDING PORTION, AND MEANS IN COMMUNICATION WITH THE IMAGE-RECORDING PORTION FOR ACCOMMODATING A PRECESSING FLUID. THE ACCOMMODATING MEANS PREFERABLY INCLUDES A FLUID SUPPLY MECHANISIM, SUCH AS A POD, AND A COLLECTING MECHANISM, SUCH AS A TRAP, THAT INITIALLY EXTEND OUTWARDLY FROM THE LEADING TRAILING ENDS OF THE IMAGE-RECORDING PORTION, RESPECTIVELY, BUT THAT ARE FOLDABLE TO POSITIONS BEHIND A PRINT-VIEWING SIDE OF THE RECORDING PORTION AFTER PROCESSING HAS BEEN INITIATED. SUCH FOLDING IMPROVES THE APPEARANCE OF THE PROCESSED FILM UNIT WITHOUT GENERATING ANY NECESSARILY DISPOSABLE WASTE. THE FOLDABLE PORTIONS ARE SUBSTANTIALLY FLAT WHEN FOLDED AND, IN ACCORDANCE WITH ONE FEATURE, ARE APPROXIMATELY EQUAL IN COMBINED AREA TO THE AREA OF THE IMAGERECORDING PORTION, TO EVENLY COVER THE ENTIRE SIDE OF THE IMAGE RECORDING PORTION OPPOSITE FROM THE PRINT-VIEWING SIDE.

mm mm Filed Sept. 7, 1971 2 Sheets-Sheet 1 JOHN A. MATHEWS INVENTOR.

FIG. 4

k 1974 V J. AQMATHEws 3,532,182 I FILM UNIT 2 Sheets-Sheet '3 FiledSept. 7 1971 JOHN A. MATHEWS INVENTOR.

United States Patent 3,832,182 FILM UNIT John A. Mathews, Fairport, N.assignor to Eastman Kodak Company, Rochester, NY. Filed Sept. 7, 1971,Ser. No. 178,235 Int. Cl. G03e 1/48 US. CI. 96-76 C 17 Claims ABSTRACTOF THE DISCLOSURE A photographic film unit of the self-processing type,including an image-recording portion, and means in communication withthe image-recording portion for accommodating a processing fluid. Theaccommodating means preferably includes a fluid supply mechanism, suchas a pod, and a collecting mechanism, such as a trap, that initiallyextend outwardly from the leading and trailing ends of theimage-recording portion, respectively, but that are foldable topositions behind a print-viewing side of the recording portion afterprocessing has been initiated. Such folding improves the appearance ofthe processed film unit without generating any necessarily disposablewaste. The foldable portions are substantially fiat when folded and, inaccordance with one feature, are approximately equal in combined area tothe area of the imagerecording portion, to evenly cover the entire sideof the image-recording portion opposite from the print-viewing side.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates tophotographic film units of the self-processing type, and morespecifically to selfprocessing film units including means for handlingor otherwise accommodating a processing fluid or composition.

GENERAL FEATURES AND FORMS OF SEEP-PROCESSING FILM UNITS Whileself-processing film units can take many different forms, they generallyinclude an image-recording portion and reservoir means for accommodatinga processing fluid. The recording portion is defined by a photosensitiveelement and a process sheet: the former including one or more layers ofradiation-sensitive material, for recording a processable latent image,and the latter serving as an aid for distributing the fluid over thephotosensitive element to effect such processing. The accommodatingmeans is in communication with the image-recording portion, andgenerally includes a container, such as a pod, for supplying theprocessing fluid to be distributed, as well as a collector, such as atrap, for receiving any exces of the fluid after it is distributed. Inoperation, the film unit is moved through processing means that rupturethe container, distribute its contents in a layer of appropriatethickness between the photosensitive element and process sheet, anddirect any excess into the collector. The fluid then permeates theradiation-sensitive layers to effect processing of the latent image, anda final image is established in a manner suitable for its visualpresentation.

In the most well known form of such film units, the process sheet isopaque, and initially is separated or spaced apart from the exposureside of the photosensitive element to permit its exposure. The sheetthen is superposed or registered with the exposure site of thephotosensitive element for processing. The visibly presentable image isestablished in an image-receiving layer associated with the processsheet, and that sheet is separated or peeled apart from thephotosensitive element to define a reflection print. Such film units canbe referred to as being of a post-registered and peel-apart type,referring, respectively, to the initial and final relative positions ofthe photosensitive element and process sheet. Post-registered 3,832,182Patented Aug. 27, 1974 identifies the feature of registration afterexposure, while peel apart identifies the feature requiring removal ofthe process sheet to obtain the final print. An example of apost-registered, peel-apart film unit is illustrated and described inUS. Pat. No. 3,080,805.

In other forms of self-processing film units, the photosensitive elementand process sheet are registered or superposed prior to exposure,preferably at the time of manufacture, and remain in substantially thesame condition during and after exposure and processing. The processsheet usually is transparent, to permit exposure of the photosensitiveelement, and remains permanently attached to the photosensitive elementas part of the visibly presentable image. These last-mentioned filmunits can be referred to as being of a preregistered and integral type,again referring to the initial and final relative positions of thephotosensitive element and process sheet. Examples of preregistered,integral film units, wherein the image-receiving layer is most closelyassociated with the process sheet, are disclosed in US. Pat. No.3,415,644 and in British Pat. No. 1,224,372. Other examples, wherein theimage-receiving layer is associated with the photosensitive element, aredisclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Applications Ser. 'No. 869,186,entitled Photographic Film Unit for Diffusion Transfer Processing, filedon Oct. 24, 1969 in the name of H. E. Cole; and Ser. No. 43,322,entitled Photographic Film Unit, filed on June 4, 1970 in the name of H.E. Cole.

The present invention is illustrated and described with a preregistered,integral film unit, and has particular utility therewith. However,certain of its features also can be applied to other types of integralfilm units, and certain embodiments of post-registered or otherpeel-apart units.

EXEMPLARY PROBLEMS OFTEN ENCOUNTERED WITH PREVIOUSLY KNOWNSELF-PROCESSING FILM UNITS While self-processing film units offerseveral well-known advantages over conventional film, they also sulferfrom significant disadvantages that have persisted even though at leastseveral relate to ecology, consumer convenience, and/ or other mattersthat have been subjected to intense formal research.

By way of example only, considerable resources have been expended inattempts to provide improved means for handling certain materials, suchas the containers or pods and collectors or traps, that serve theirprimary function during processing and essentially comprise waste afterthat processing function is accomplished. Resulting possible approacheshave ranged from reliance on the consumer for the proper separation anddisposal of such materials, to the provision of camera mechanisms fortheir automatic separation and collection. However, while each of theseapproaches has particular advantages, and generally is satisfactory,each also suffers from certain disadvantages, at least under certainoperating conditions. Reliance on the consumer to dispose of wastepermits camera simplification and reduced costs, but has not beenconsidered reliable in obtaining proper waste disposal. Separationandcollection of the waste materials by the camera can be nearlyreliable, but requires more complex and expensive camera mechanisms, aswell as increased size and bulkiness of the camera. Additionally, inalmost all of the presently known film units where waste materials areintended to be separated from the final print, there is an added dangerthat processing fluid may leak from the waste materials or the printitself. This problem can be particularly troublesome because of thenature of the fluid, which can be caustic, or otherwise objectionable incertain environments.

Still further, and referring now to the presently preferred film unitillustrated and described in previously 3 mentioned.U.S. ApplicationSer. No. 869,186, the bac of the final print may comprise a transparentmaterial suchas clear plastic, and mayhave an off-white or even mottledappearance from carbon black in the processing fluid. Plastic can makewriting on the print difficult, and some consumers may find theoff-white color or mottled appearance objectionable.

I SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A primary object of the present invention isto overcome certain or all of the above-mentioned disadvantages, as wellas other disadvantages of self-processing film units that are known inthe art or will become apparent from the following description.

Another object of the invention is to provide a selfprocessing film unitincluding improved means for managing supply and/or collectingmechanisms for the processing fluid after processing has been initiated.

A further object of the invention is to provide a selfprocessing filmunit wherein processing-fluid accommodating means, such as fluid supplyand/or collecting mechanisms, remain as a permanent part of the finalprint without detracting substantially from its aesthetic appearance.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a self processing filmunit wherein there is little or no chance that any processing fluid willescape.

Another object of the invention is to provide a preregistered, integralfilm unit, having an image-recording portion with a container andcollector for processing fluid permanently attached to leading andtrailing ends thereof, respectively, wherein one or both of thecontainer and collector are foldable after processing has been initiatedto a position engaging one side of the imagerecording portion.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a film unit of theabove type wherein a foldable portion associated 'with the containerand/or collector is substantially equal in area to the area of theimage-recording portion.

Still another object of the invention is to provide a preregistered,integral film unit of the self-processing type, having a substantiallyflat element that is movable into engagement with one side of theimage-recording portion after processing has been initiated to enhancethe properties of the recording portion.

A further object of the invention is to provide a preregistered,integral film unit having a permanently attached pod and trap, both ofwhich are foldable from initial extended positions to final positionsengaging a side of the image-recording portion opposite the side fromwhich the recording portion is adapted to be viewed.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, aself-processing film unit, having an image-recording portion, isprovided with means movable relative to the recording portion from afirst position, established for processing, to a second position,established after the initation of processing.

In accordance with one feature of the preferred embodiment, the movablemeans is associated with reservoir means for accommodating a processingfluid, such as a fluid supply and/or collecting mechanism, and hides atleast a portion of the reservoir means from a viewing of the finalprint. In accordance with another feature, the accommodating meansincludes a container for supplying the processing fluid to the leadingend of the image-recording portion, and/or a collector for receiving anyexcess of the fluid from the trailing end of such portion. Either one orboth of the container and collector are movable from initial positionsfor serving their supplying and/or collecting functions, to finalpositions engaging the side of the image-recording portion that isopposite from the print viewing side. In accordance with yet anotherfeature, one or both of the container and collector are sup ported on asubstantially flat, rectangular element or elements that cover thecontainer and/or collector in their final positions. In accordance withstill another and particularly advantageous feature, the movable meansis substantially equal in area to the image-recording portion and coversthe entire back of the print in the second or final position of themovable means. In this manner, it can be utilized to enhance theproperties of the final print.

The invention, and its objects and advantages, will become more apparentin the detailed description of the preferred embodiments presentedbelow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The above and other objects andadvantages of the present invention will become apparent to one skilledin the art from the following detailed description read in conjunctionwith the attached drawings, wherein like reference numerals indicatelike elements, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view representing an assemblage of film units inaccordance with the present invention, as they might be received in acamera usable with such an assemblage.

FIG. 2 is a pictorial view of a film unit in accordance with the presentinvention, illustrating the same with a processing fluid container andan excess fluid collector in extended positions they might assume duringprocessing of the film unit.

FIG. 3 is a pictorial view of the film unit depicted in FIG. 2, with thecontainer and collector partially folded between initial extendedpositions and final completely folded positions.

FIG. 4 is a pictorial view of the film unit depicted in FIG. 2 with thecontainer and collector completely folded to final positions coveringthe side of the image-recording portion opposite from the print viewingside.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the film unit depicted in FIG. 2,illustrating various components of that film unit and their assembledarrangement.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are pictorial views of an alternative embodiment of thefilm unit in accordance with the present invention, wherein the supplyand collecting mechanisms are similar to those depicted in FIG. 2, buthave different proportional areas.

FIGS. 8 and 9 are pictorial views of yet another embodiment of thepresent invention, wherein the supply mechanism is the only foldingelement of the unit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Referring now to thedrawings, and first to FIG. 2, a preferred embodiment of the inventioncomprises a selfprocessing film unit 3 including an image-recordingportion 5, and reservoir means, such as supply and collecting mechanisms7 and 9, for accommodating a processing fluid.

The image-recording portion is adapted to record a latent image that isprocessable by the processing fluid, and for this purpose is providedwith a first or photosensitive element 11, that is suitable forsupporting the latent image, and a second element or process sheet 13,for aiding in distributing the fluid over the photosensitive element.The fluid accommodating means, on the other hand, provides the fluid fordistribution, usually with some excess, and receives any such excess forstorage or disposal after the distribution is completed. Thus, it shouldbe apparent that the film unit includes all materials necessary forrecording and processing a photographic image, when used in appropriateapparatus, such as the processing camera 15 illustrated in FIG. 1.

Image-Recording Portion The preferred image-recording portion is of thepreregistered, integral type, wherein the process sheet 13 ispermanently secured to the photosensitive element 11 along their lateraledges 16, and remains in substantially the same physical arrangementduring exposure and after processing.

The photosensitive element 11 is defined by resiliently flexiblematerials and includes one or more radiation sensitive layers forrecording the latent image, as well as a mordant, or other appropriatelayer, for receiving a visibly presentable image that is establishedduring processing of the latent-image. Since this element serves tosupport both the latent image and the visibly presentable image, itsometimes is referred to as an integral negative receiver.

The process sheet 13 also is defined by resiliently flexible materials,and cooperates with the photosensitive element to provide a flatrectangular unit having straight edges and square corners, as well asother properties facilitating its handling in photographic apparatus.While the lateral edges of the sheet are permanently secured to thephotosensitive element, as previously mentioned, the central portionsare resiliently separable to permit distribution of the processingfluid, and the ends are free to permit introduction of the fluid betweenthe element and sheet at the leading end and collection of any excessfrom therebetween at the trailing end.

Further details of the photosensitive element and process sheet aredescribed and illustrated in the previously mentioned U.S. ApplicationsSer. Nos. 869,186 and 43; 322; and in commonly assigned, copending U.S.Application Ser. No. 70,836, entitled Film Unit, and filed on Sept. 9,1970 in the name of H. Nerwin.

The preferred image-recording portion is adapted to be exposed andviewed from opposite sides, with the image-receiving or mordant beinglocated where it is visible (in the case of a reflection print) from afirst side 17 (FIG. 4), and the radiation sensitive layers beingexposable from the opposite side 19 (FIGS. 2 and 3 Such viewing andexposure can be permitted by using transparent materials, both as asupport for the image-receiving or mordant layer, and as the processsheet, to define substantially clear protective coverings on both sidesof the recording portion.

While the major area of the image-recording portion on the first sidethereof is intended to be occupied by the final print, it also willordinarily include a white and preferably uniform border 21 thatsurrounds the circumferential portions of the print in a well knownmanner.

Although the present invention has particular utility withimage-recording portions of the above described type, at least certainof its features also are applicable to other types, such as integralunits that are adapted to be exposed and viewed from the same side, asdisclosed in previously mentioned U.S. Pat. No. 3,415,644, or certainembodiments of peel-apart units.

Processing Fluid Accommodating Means The preferred fluid accommodatingmeans includes the supply mechanism 7 for discharging the procesingfluid between the photosensitive element and process sheet at theleading end of the unit, and the collecting mechanism 9 for receivingany excess of the fluid from therebetween at the trailing end.

The supply mechanism can take many different forms, ranging from thosehaving many different parts, with each serving separate functions, tothose having only one or a few parts, with each serving many functions.As illustrated in FIG. 2, the supply mechanism encompasses three basicparts comprising a container or pod 23 of the processing fluid, a funnelor conduit 25 for directing the processing fluid from the container tothe leading end of the image-recording portion between thephotosensitive element and process sheet, and a support or carrier 27that also is adapted to serve as a covering element in a manner to bedescribed hereinafter.

Container 23 includes various vapor impervious and appearance-improvingmaterials, such as a plastic inner layer, a lead-foil intermediate layerand an outer paper wrapping, that contribute to provide a relativelystiff or nonresilient structure as compared to the image-recordingportion. The container is sealed around its periphery to provide acavity for the processing fluid, but is adapted to release that fluidfrom one edge 29 upon the application to the container of a mechanicalstress usually provided by juxtaposed pressure-applying members 31 inrelated photographic apparatus such as the camera 15 (FIG. 1).

Funnel or conduit 25 is defined by adjacent sheets 33 and 34 (FIG. 5),and includes first separable edges 35 that receive the rupturable edge29 of the container therebetween, as well as second contacting edges 36that are inserted between the separable leading ends of thephotosensitive element and process sheet. The funnel is particularlywell adapted for directing processing fluid discharged from thecontainer to a location at the leading end of the image-recordingportion with little or no possibility of leakage. Other features of thefunnel are described hereinafter in connection with coupling of thesupply mechanism to the image-recording portion and the relativemovement of such mechanism and portion between the respective positionsillustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4.

The support or carrier 27 is constructed from relatively stiff material,such as paper or cardboard, and defines a substantially flat rectangularelement having straight edges and square corners. For purposes to becomemore apparent hereinafter, the rectangular element has substantially thesame width as the image-recording portion and subtends an area that,when combined with the area of a similar element forming part of thecollecting mechanism, substantially equals the area defined by theimage-recording portion. In the preferred embodiment, this length issubstantially equal to one half the length of the last mentionedportion. The previously mentioned container 23 and funnel 25 arepermanently attached to one side of the carrier, and this sidepreferably is treated with a suitable material for facilitating suchattachment, as Well as for protecting the carrier from any of theprocessing fluid. The side of the carrier opposite from the container,on the other hand, provides a surface that is suitable for receiving inkor other writing materials to facilitate print identification.

The fluid collecting mechanism or trap 9 includes a support or carrier37, that is substantially identical to the carrier 27, and afluid-receiving structure 38 for collecting any excess of the processingfluid from the trailing end of the recording portion. As will becomemore apparent hereinafter, it is preferable that the collectingstructure be thin, both before and after receiving the excess fluid, butits peripheral dimensions need only be within the confines of itscarrier. For this reason it has been illustrated as a folded over pieceof flexible sheet material 39 suitably sealed around three edges in amanner insuring confinement without leakage of any processing fluidreceived therein. Since the illustrated film unit is intended to be usedwith apparatus having stepped pressure-applying members, as described inpreviously mentioned application Ser. No. 70,836, the collectingmechanism need not be provided with internal spacers or the like thatoften are used for separating the pressure members as the trailing endof the film unit passes therebetween. At its leading edges 41, thefolded sheet is coupled to the image-recording portion in anyappropriate manner insuring that all of the processing fluid will bedirected into the collecting mechanism with little or no possibility ofleakage.

Additional Cooperating Features, and Operation of the Film Unit Thesupply and collecting mechanisms are permanently attached to theimage-recording portion by suitable adhesives, or the like, that arerepresented by the shaded areas in FIG. 5. Such adhesives are selectedand applied to cooperate with the sealed lateral edges of theimagerecording portion for providing a completely closed system, bothduring and after processing, that essentially eliminates any significantlikelihood that deleterious components of the processing fluid willescape therefrom. This is not meant, however, to preclude any desirableescape from the system of water or other possible neutral components ofthe fluid.

Additionally, the relatively stiff components of the supply andcollecting mechanisms are spaced slightly from the image-recordingportion by flexible materials, such as the funnel 25 and the leadingedges of the folded over sheet 39, to provide an easily foldable jointthat facilitates folding, without interference, of the supply andcollecting mechanisms relative to the image-recording portion.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, and to the operation of the film unit,it is intended to be supplied in a laid-out condition with the supplyand collecting mechanisms extending outwardly from and in substantiallythe same plane as the image-recording portion at the leading andtrailing ends thereof, respectively. After exposure of thephotosensitive element, in the camera 15, for example, the film unit istransported between a pair of juxtaposed pressure-applying members 31,to effect the processing of the latent image and the establishment of avisible image, by rupturing the container 23, distributing theprocessing fluid between the photosensitive element 11 and process sheet13, and collecting of any excess fluid in the collecting structure 39.As described in the previously mentioned U.S. Application Ser. No.869,186, the process ing fluid preferably includes an opacifier, thatcooperates with an opaque layer in the photosensitive element, to permitimmediate withdrawal of the film unit from the camera when processing iscompleted.

During processing, the supply and collecting mechanisms provideconvenient appendages for handling of the unit without contacting theimage-recording portion. After processing, however, these appendagestend to detract from the aesthetic appearance of the finished print, atleast insofar as photographers have become used to conventional printshaving uniform borders. Additionally, the appendages increase theoverall length of the print, making its storage difficult or ineflicientin albums, or the like.

Referring now to FIGS. 2-5, the present invention eliminates these andother problems, and will result in still further advantages, byproviding for movement of at least portions of the fluid accommodatingmeans, such as supply and collecting mechanisms, from first positionsremoved from the back or second side of the image-recording portion, tosecond positions covering the second side thereof. The first positionspreferably are those illustrated in FIG. 2, wherein the supply andcollecting mechanisms lie in substantially the same plane as theimage-recording portion, for efliciently serving their intended supplyand collecting functions, while the second positions preferably arethose illustrated in FIG. 4, wherein the mechanisms flatly engage andpreferably are adhered to the back-side of the final print. Moreover,the movement between such positions preferably is by folding of themechanisms 180 along lines where they are attached to the leading andtrailing ends of the image-recording portion. As previously mentioned,such folding is facilitated by the flexible nature of the attachingelements along such lines, and by the slight spacing of the supply andcollecting mechanisms from the image-recording portion. Additionally,the folding can be accomplished without adversely affecting the liquidtightness of the system, and in fact can provide or enhance any meanspreventing flow of the processing fluid between the image-recordingportion and the accommodating means.

In accordance with particularly advantageous features of the invention,the foldable supply and collecting mechanisms are equal in width to theimage-recording portion, and together subtend an area equal to theimage-recording portion, such that the mechanisms cooperate in theirfolded condition to completely cover its second side and to define asmooth, flat back for the print. Moreover, where these equal widths andareas are defined by the carriers 27 and 37 of the supply and collectingmechanisms, these carriers will serve as covers for capturing the fluidcontainer or pod 23 and the collector or trap 39 between the carriersand the second side of the imagerecording portion. In this manner, theappearance of the print is further improved and the sealed enclosureprevents the escape of any remaining fluid in the fluid accommodatingmeans.

Still other advantages can be accomplished by selection of the materialsor form of the supply and collecting mechanisms or their carriers. Forexample, in their folded conditions, the mechanisms can serve to stiffenthe final print and to provide a convenient paper surface, or the like,to facilitate writing or the placing of other identifying indicium onthe back of the print. Moreover, since the mechanisms preferably areequal in area to the area of the image-recording portion, the containeror pod and collector or trap can have relatively large peripheraldimensions, with corresponding small or flat thickness dimensions, whilestill having sufficient capacity to handle an appropriate amount andexcess of the processing fluid. This, in turn, facilitates the design offlat film packs and cameras for use with assemblages of the film units.Still further, the relatively stiff properties of the mechanisms ortheir carriers facilitate their handling in photographic apparatus suchas the camera illustrated in FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT Referring now to FIGS.6 and 7, an alternative embodiment incorporating certain features of theinvention is illustrated, comprising an image-recording, portion 51, andprocessing-fluid accommodating means, including supply and collectingmechanisms 53 and 55, respectively. While this embodiment is similar inoperation to the preferred embodiment described above, the respectiveareas of the supply and collecting mechanisms have been changed inproportion, such that the collecting mechanism is equal in area totwo-thirds of the image-recording portion while the area of the supplymechanism is only one-third thereof. Such an arrangement permits the useof a collecting structure or trap 57 that can be even flatter than thatof the preferred embodiment after receiving the same excess ofprocessing fluid. Little or no loss of flatness after use is suffered inthe container or pod 59, since this element is substantially empty atthat time and therefore need be no thicker than the materials from whichit is made.

Additionally, in this embodiment, the supply and collecting mechanismshave been reduced in their number of parts, as compared to thepreviously described embodiment, by eliminating the carriers and podfunnel, and by utilizing the remaining parts for several cooperatingfunctions. Thus, the container or pod 59 continues beyond its rupturableseal 61 to define a flexible extension 63 that provides the funnel orconduit as well as the means for attaching the container to theimage-recording portion. Still further, the stiffness of the supplymechanism, that is preferred for its covering function, is provided bythe lead-foil layer 65 of its containing part, this layer beingdiscontinued outside of the flexible connecting portion. Similarly, thecollecting structure 57 is constructed from a suitable material, such aswax-treated paper, that serves both to retain the processing fluid andto define a flexible portion 67 for facilitating folding of themechanism.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SECOND ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT Still anotherembodiment of certain features of the invention are illustrated in FIGS.8 and 9, comprising an image-recording portion and processing-fluidsaccommodating means in the form of a supply mechanism 77.

In this embodiment, the collecting structure or trap has beeneliminated, or otherwise accounted for, such that it is not intended tobe a part of the foldable portions of the film unit. The area subtendedby the supply structure or its carrier, on the other hand, has beenincreased to equal and completely cover the entire second side of theimage-recording portion.

It should now be apparent that the present invention provides aself-processing film unit having unique structural features andsignificant advantages not present in previously known units of thisgeneral type. Moreover, at least certain features of the invention havespecial utility and advantages in preregistered, integral film units,and especially when applied to such film units that are adapted to beexposed and viewed from opposite sides thereof.

When all of its features are combined, the present invention can providea substantially closed fluid handling system that substantiallyeliminates any probability of leakage. Moreover, the various fluidaccommodating means are accounted for after processing without requiringtheir separation from the rest of the film unit or having to' accepttheir detraction from the aesthetic appearance of the final print. Infact, while such means previously were usually considered waste afterprocessing had been initiated, in accordance with the present inventionthey can be utilized for handling the film unit during processing andfor enhancing various properties of the print after its processing.Still further, the film units are particularly conducive to use withsimplified camera mechanisms and relatively flat film packs and cameras.

While the photosensitive element and process sheet have been defined inthe preferred embodiment as being resiliently flexible, it should beunderstood that they comprise relatively stiff sections when compared tothe relatively flexible means coupling the supply and collectingmechanisms to the image-recording portion. Similarly, the carriers forthe container and collector have been described as being relativelystiff in the preferred embodiment, but this is not intended to precludethe use of resiliently flexible sections therefor. In fact, at least inaccordance with certain features of the invention, nonresilient and/orsubstantially flexible sections could be utilized, for example, wherestiffening of the final print is not desired. Still further, certainfeatures of the invention do not require that the moveable or foldablesections be coupled to or even cooperate with a fluid accommodatingmeans, since, in accordance with such features, such sections haveadvantages independent of moving, covering or hiding the accommodatingmeans.

In the preferred embodiment, the moveable or foldable sections have beendescribed and illustrated as sections separate from the photosensitiveelement and process sheet. However, it is within the scope of certainfeatures of the present invention to utilize an extended portion of thephotosensitive element or process sheet as the moveable sections, withan appropriate crease or the like providing the flexible couplingbetween such sections and the image-recording section.

It also should be understood that the term processing fluid has beenused in a very broad sense, to include, for example, viscouscompositions, gels, reagents, water and possible other means foreffecting processing of such film units.

The invention has been described in detail with particular reference toa preferred embodiment thereof, but it will be understood thatvariations and modifications can be effected within the spirit and scopeof the invention.

I claim:

1. In a photographic film unit comprising at least two sections eachhaving first and second opposed surfaces, one of said sectionscomprising an image-recording section and including a photosensitiveelement for recording a latent image that is processable upon theapplication of an activating fluid to form a visible image which isviewable at the first surface thereof, the improvement comprising:

said sections being relatively stitf sheet-like members,

and relatively flexible means substantially permanently connecting saidsheet-like sections together for relative movement therebetween,

said sections being movable after application of the activating fluidfrom a substantially coplanar relationship into position for permanentattachment of the second surfaces in face-to-face relationship so thatat least a portion of said second surface of said image-recordingsection is covered with the other of said sections whereby said visibleimage is viewable at the first surface of said image-recording section.

2. A photographic film unit as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said secondsurface of said image-recording section is substantially entirelycovered when said sections are moved into said face-to-facerelationship.

3. A photographic film unit as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said filmunit includes means for supplying the activating fluid to be applied tosaid photosensitive element, said supply means being movable by relativemovement of said sections from a first position removed from said secondsurface of said image-recording section to a second position engagingsaid second surface.

4. A photographic film unit as claimed in Claim 3, wherein said filmunit includes means for collecting excess of the activating fluid to beapplied to said photosensitive element, said collecting means beingmovable by relative movement of said sections from a first positionremoved from said second surface of said image-record ing section to asecond position engaging said second surface.

5. In a photographic film assemblage comprising:

a substantially flat image-recording unit having leading and trailingends and first and second edges defining a rectangular area having firstand second surfaces, said recording unit including a photosensitiveelement for recording a latent image that is processable by distributinga processing composition over the element to effect the establishment ofa photographic image visible within the rectangular area from the firstsurface of the image-recording unit;

a processing fluid accommodating means including a container forsupplying a processing fluid to the leading end of the image-recordingunit for distribution over the photosensitive element, and means forcollecting any excess of the processing fluid after its distribution,the improvement comprising:

said accommodating means including a portion movable from one positionremoved from both surfaces of said image-recording unit to anotherposition engaging the second surface of said image-recording unit;

means substantially permanently and flexibly attached to saidimage-recording unit for covering the second surface of saidimage-recording unit with said movable portion of said accommodatingmeans between said cover means and said second surface of saidimage-recording unit, said cover means being movable relative to saidimage-recording unit between a first position removed from said secondsurface of said imagerecording unit and a second position covering saidsecond surface, said cover means being substantially flat and having arectangular area substantially equal to the rectangular area of saidimage-recording unit for covering said second surface and said movableportion of said accommodating means in the second position of said covermeans; and means for retaining said cover means in said second position.

6. The invention claimed in Claim 5, wherein said film assemblageincludes a plurality of said image-recording units, accommodating meansand cover means, arranged in stacked relationship.

7. The invention claimed in Claim 5, wherein said cover means carriessaid movable portion of said accommodating means, said cover means beingrelatively stiff and foldable adjacent said image-recording unit fromsaid first position to said second position.

8. The invention claimed in Claim 5, wherein folding of the said covermeans from its first to its second position also alfects movement ofsaid movable portion of said accommodating means from its one positionto its other position engaging the second side of the image-recordingunit.

9. The invention claimed in Claim 8, wherein said movable portionincludes said container for supplying the processing composition.

10. In a photographic film unit comprising:

a substantially flat image-recording structure having first and secondsurfaces having width and length dimensions, said structure including aphotosensitive element for recording a latent image that is processableby distributing a processing composition over said element to affect theestablishment of an image visible from said first surface of saidimage-record ing structure, and a process sheet for aiding in thedistribution of the processing composition over said photosensitiveelement;

a container of processing composition coupled to the leading end of saidphotosensitive element for supplying the processing composition to bedistributed over said element;

a fluid collecting mechanism coupled to the trailing end of saidphotosensitive element for collecting any excess of the processingcomposition after its distribution over said element; the improvementcomprising:

means substantially permanently connected to said image-recordingstructure and underlying said container and said collecting mechanismfor folding said container and mechanism between first extendedpositions removed from said second surface and second positions againstsaid second surface of said image-recording structure, and for coveringsaid second surface of said image-recording structure in said secondpositions of said means with said container and collecting mechanismsbetween said means and said second surface; and means for retaining saidfolding means in said second positions.

11. In a photographic film unit comprising:

a resilient image-recording portion having leading and trailing ends andfirst and second edges defining a plane having first and secondsurfaces, said imagerecording portion including a photosensitive elementfor recording a latent image that is processable to establish a visibleimage viewable from the first surface of the image-recording portion,and a process sheet permanently attached to the photosensitive elementfor aiding in the distribution of a processing fluid over said elementto effect such processing;

a relatively stiff container of processing fluid, said container beingrupturable for discharging said fluid; the improvement comprising:

means for permanently attaching said container to said leading end ofsaid image-recording portion and for directing said fluid, after it isdischarged, to said leading end for distribution between saidphotosensitive element and process sheet, said attaching means includinga section adjacent said leading end that is less resilient than saidimage-recording portion and less stiff than said container to facilitatefolding of said container between one position extending away from andin substantially the same plane as said image-recording portion andanother position against said second surface of said image-recordingportion;

and means for retaining said container in said other position.

12. A photographic film unit as claimed in Claim 11, comprising:

a relatively stiff fluid collecting mechanism for receiving any excessof the processing fluid, after it has been distributed; and

means for permanently attaching said collecting mechanism to saidtrailing end of said image-recording portion and for directing suchexcess into the mechanism from between said photosensitive element andprocess sheet, said last mentioned attaching means including a sectionadjacent said trailing end that is less resilient than saidimage-recording portion and less stifl? than said collecting mechanismfor facilitating folding of said mechanism between one positionextending away from and in substantially the same plane as saidimage-recording portion and another position against the second surfaceof said imagerecording portion.

13. A photographic film unit comprising:

a substantially flat image-recording portion for recording a latentimage that is processable to establish a visible image, said recordingportion defining leading and trailing ends, a first surface from whichthe visible image is adapted to be viewed, and a second surface;

a container for supplying a processing composition to theimage-recording portion to effect processing of the latent image andestablishment of the visible image;

means for substantially permanently coupling said container to saidleading end of said image-recording portion, said coupling means beingreadily bendable to permit folding of said container from a firstposition removed from said second surface to a second position inengagement with said second surface; and means for retaining saidcontainer in said second position.

14. The invention claimed in Claim 12 comprising:

collecting means for receiving any excess of the processing composition;and

means for substantially permanently coupling said collecting means tosaid trailing end of said image-recording unit, said last mentionedcoupling means being bendable to permit folding of said collecting meansfrom a first position removed from second surface to a second positionin engagement with said second surface.

15. In a self-processing film unit, comprising:

an image-recording portion for recording a processable latent image,said portion defining at least one flat surface;

reservoir means for receiving a processing fluid effective to processthe latent image; the improvement comprising:

means substantially permanently coupling said reservoir means and saidimage-recording portion for movement of said reservoir means between afirst position removed from said flat surface and a second positionengaging said flat surface of said image-recording portion; and meansfor retaining said reservoir means in said second position.

16. A self-processing film unit as claimed in Claim 15, wherein saidreservoir means comprises a container for supplying the processing fluidto said image-recording portion.

17. A self-processing film unit as claimed in Claim 15, wherein saidreservoir means comprises a collector for receiving any excess of theprocessing fluid from said image-recording portion.

(References on following page) References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTSRONALD H. SMITH, Primary Examiner J. L. GOODROW, Assistant ExaminerNerwin 96-76 R Harvey 9676 R US. Cl. X.R. Land 95-13 UX 5 -13 Nerwin9676 R

